East Africa Tourist Visa Explained: Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda

Last updated: 18 May 2026 · Written by Maria Kamau (Mkay) – ICF-Certified Travel Coach

Hey everyone, I hope you’re all doing well! Welcome back to Travel with Mkay, and if you’re here for the first time, hi! I’m Maria, but most people call me Mkay.

I remember standing at the Namanga border post a few years ago, watching a flustered traveller realise her single-entry Kenya visa wouldn’t let her cross into Tanzania and come back. She’d paid US$50 for a visa she could only use once, and now she’d have to buy another. That’s when I realised how confusing East Africa’s visa rules can be — even for seasoned travellers.

In this guide, I’ll break down the East Africa Tourist Visa (EAC visa), compare it to single-country visas, and share practical tips so you don’t waste money or get stuck at a border.

Why the East Africa Tourist Visa Matters

If you’re planning to visit more than one East African country, the EAC tourist visa can save you both money and hassle. It allows multiple entries into Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda (and sometimes Tanzania, depending on the agreement) over 90 days. The cost is US$100 — compared to US$50 for a single-entry Kenya visa, US$50 for Uganda, and US$30 for Rwanda. If you’re visiting two or three of these countries, the EAC visa is a no-brainer.

⚠ Important: The EAC visa is NOT valid for Tanzania or Burundi under the current single-visa arrangement. Tanzania has its own visa, and you’ll need separate visas for Tanzania and Burundi. Always check the latest on eCitizen or the respective embassy sites before you go.

Now, let’s look at the options side by side so you can decide which visa fits your itinerary.

Quick-Scan: All 4 Visa Options at a Glance

Here’s a snapshot of the main visa types for East Africa. The EAC visa covers Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda; single-country visas are for individual nations.

Visa Type	Countries Covered	Cost (US$)	Validity	Max Stay	Best For
East Africa Tourist Visa	Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda	100	90 days	90 days (total)	Multi-country trips visiting 2+ countries
Kenya Single-Entry Visa	Kenya only	50	90 days	90 days	Single-destination Kenya trip
Uganda Single-Entry Visa	Uganda only	50	90 days	90 days	Single-destination Uganda trip
Rwanda Single-Entry Visa	Rwanda only	30	30 days	30 days	Short Rwanda-only trip

*Prices are as of May 2026. Always verify on official government portals.*

1. What Is the East Africa Tourist Visa?

The East Africa Tourist Visa is a single-entry travel document that lets you visit Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda multiple times within a single trip. It costs US$100 and is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, with a maximum stay of 90 days total across all three countries. You cannot get this visa at any border — you must apply from your country of residence or through a Kenyan embassy or consulate before you travel.

Cost Breakdown

The East Africa Tourist Visa costs US$100, and you pay it online through the official government portals. Here is how it compares to buying separate single-country visas for each nation:

Visa Type	Cost (US$)
East Africa Tourist Visa (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda)	100
Kenya Single Entry Visa	50
Uganda Single Entry Visa	50
Rwanda Single Entry Visa	30

✦ Budget Rules: If you plan to visit all three countries, the EAC visa saves you US$30 compared to buying three separate visas. But if you only want Kenya and Uganda, the math is the same — US$100 either way. Do the maths before you apply.

You pay the US$100 fee via credit or debit card on the eCitizen portal or the official Kenya evisa website. The payment is in US dollars, but your bank will convert it to KSh at their rate. I have seen charges of roughly KSh 13,000–14,000 depending on the exchange rate that day, so budget a little extra for bank fees.

How to Get There

You apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa before you leave home. The process is entirely online through eCitizen. You will need a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page, a passport-sized digital photo (white background), proof of your travel itinerary (flight bookings or a detailed day-by-day plan), a return ticket or onward ticket out of the EAC region, and evidence of sufficient funds — typically a bank statement showing at least US$500 or equivalent in KSh for the trip.

💡 Mkay’s Tip: Upload your documents as PDF files, not JPEGs. The eCitizen system rejects blurry images, and you will waste a day re-uploading. I have seen women in my WhatsApp group stuck for three days because their photo was 2MB over the limit.

Processing takes three to five working days normally, but during peak seasons (June–August, December–January) it can stretch to ten days. Apply at least two weeks before your departure. Once approved, you receive a PDF via email. Print two copies — one for your carry-on, one in your checked bag. Immigration officers at JKIA, Entebbe, and Kigali International Airport will ask to see the printed approval letter alongside your passport.

⚠ Important: The East Africa Tourist Visa is NOT available at any land border or airport arrival desk. Do not show up at Busia border post or Nairobi’s JKIA expecting to buy it there. You will be turned away and forced to buy a single-entry Kenya visa (US$50) instead, losing the multi-country benefit.

What to Do

Once you hold that US$100 visa, you can move freely between Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda by road or air without paying again. Here is how to use it practically:

Cross from Nairobi to Kampala by bus. Board an Easy Coach bus from Nairobi’s Ambassadeur Terminal to Kampala. The fare is roughly KSh 3,500–4,000 one way. The bus departs at 7:00 AM and arrives in Kampala around 10:00 PM same day. At the Busia border, immigration officers will stamp you out of Kenya and into Uganda using the same EAC visa — no extra fee.

Fly from Entebbe to Kigali. RwandAir operates daily flights between Entebbe and Kigali for about US$80–120 one way. At Kigali International Airport, present your EAC visa approval letter and passport. The officer will stamp you into Rwanda for the remainder of your 90-day window. The whole process takes about 15 minutes.

Take a matatu from Kigali to Kisoro for gorilla trekking. From Kigali’s main bus station, board a matatu to Kisoro town (about 3 hours, roughly RwF 5,000–7,000). Kisoro is the gateway to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in Uganda. You cross the border at Cyanika or Bunagana — same visa, no extra charge. The park entry fee for gorilla trekking is US$700 per person (Uganda side), payable via credit card or US dollars cash at the Uganda Wildlife Authority office.

✦ Budget Rules: The EAC visa is a single-entry visa. If you leave the EAC region (for example, fly from Kigali to Addis Ababa for a weekend), the visa expires. You cannot re-enter Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda on the same US$100 visa. You would need to apply for a new visa from scratch.

2. How to Apply — Step by Step

You apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa entirely online through the Kenya e-Visa portal at evisa.go.ke or via the eCitizen platform at ecitizen.go.ke. The process takes about 20 minutes if you have your documents ready, and you will receive the approval via email within two to three business days.

Cost Breakdown

The visa fee is a flat US$100, payable by credit or debit card during the online application. There are no additional service charges if you apply directly through the government portal — third-party agents often add a markup, so I always recommend going straight to the source. Here is the full cost breakdown:

Item	Fee
eCitizen account creation	Free
Visa application form	Free
Document uploads	Free
East Africa Tourist Visa fee	US$100
Rush processing (if needed)	Extra fee (varies, check portal)

💡 Mkay’s Tip: Pay with a card that does not charge foreign transaction fees. I have seen US$100 turn into US$108 or more depending on your bank’s exchange rate and fees. Use a no-fee card or a digital wallet that converts at the mid-market rate.

How to Get There

First, head to evisa.go.ke or ecitizen.go.ke and create an account. You will need a valid email address and a passport that has at least six months of validity remaining. Once logged in, select “East Africa Tourist Visa” from the list of permit types. Fill in your personal details exactly as they appear on your passport — any mismatch can cause delays at immigration. Upload a scanned copy of your passport bio-data page, a recent passport-sized photograph (white background, 600×600 pixels minimum), your flight itinerary showing first entry into Kenya, and hotel bookings for your stay in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

⚠ Important: Your first entry MUST be into Kenya. Even if your flight lands in Entebbe or Kigali first, you cannot use this visa. I had a client who booked a cheap flight into Kigali thinking she could activate the visa there — she had to buy a last-minute ticket to Nairobi. Plan your route accordingly.

What to Do

After you submit, the system processes your application. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number. Check the status by logging back into your eCitizen dashboard — do not rely on email notifications alone, as they sometimes land in spam folders.

Once approved, print the approval letter. The immigration officer at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) will stamp your passport with the visa sticker. Carry that printed letter with your passport at all times during your trip; you will need it when crossing borders into Uganda and Rwanda by road or air.

✦ Budget Rules: Do not pay for “expedited” services from unofficial WhatsApp numbers or agents claiming they can get your visa in one hour. Only use the official rush processing option on evisa.go.ke — it costs extra but is the only legitimate way to speed things up. Scammers target travelers who are in a hurry.

3. Kenya Single-Entry Visa — When to Choose It

If you are flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) for a single safari block or a beach stay and have no plans to cross into Uganda or Tanzania overland, the Kenya single-entry visa is your straightforward option. It costs US$50, is valid for 90 days from the date of issue, and lets you enter Kenya exactly once. You apply entirely through the eCitizen portal — no embassy visit, no paper forms — and most approvals land in your email within 2–3 business days.

Cost Breakdown

The visa fee is US$50 (approximately KSh 6,500 at current exchange rates). There are no additional service charges if you apply directly on eCitizen, but be aware that your bank or card provider may add a small foreign-transaction fee. Here is the full cost picture:

Item	Amount
Kenya single-entry visa fee	US$50 (≈ KSh 6,500)
eCitizen platform fee	KSh 0 (included in visa fee)
Processing time	2–3 business days
Validity after issue	90 days
Maximum stay per entry	90 days

💡 Mkay’s Tip: Pay with a Visa or Mastercard that has no foreign-currency markup. Some Kenyan bank cards charge 1–2% on USD transactions — check with your bank before you hit “submit” on eCitizen.

How to Get There

After your visa is approved, you simply board your flight to Kenya. The single-entry visa is an electronic travel authorization linked to your passport number — no sticker, no physical stamp at issuance. You will print the approval letter from eCitizen and carry it with your boarding pass.

Once you land at JKIA, immigration officers scan your passport and confirm the visa is active. From the airport, you can take a taxi to Nairobi’s city centre for around KSh 2,000–2,500 (book via Uber or Bolt for a fixed fare), or catch a Nairobi Airport Bus (route 34) to Railways terminus for KSh 150. If you are heading straight to a safari park like Nairobi National Park (entry fee: KSh 1,000 for citizens, US$43 for non-residents via KWS), the park gate is only 15 minutes from the airport by taxi — you can be on a game drive by lunchtime.

What to Do

With a single-entry visa, you stay inside Kenya for the entire trip, which suits a focused itinerary. Spend three days in the Masai Mara (conservancy fees vary by camp, but budget around US$180–250 per night for a mid-range tented camp), then fly from Mara’s airstrip to Mombasa via Fly540 or JamboJet for a beach reset at Diani Beach — the Likoni ferry crossing costs KSh 70 per adult foot passenger. Alternatively, head to Amboseli National Park for views of Kilimanjaro (entry: US$60 per adult non-resident, payable via eCitizen or at the gate with a card). If you have energy left, book a matatu from Nairobi’s Ambassadeur bus stop to Naivasha (KSh 400–500) for a boat ride on Lake Naivasha to see hippos and fish eagles.

⚠ Important: Because this visa allows only one entry, you cannot leave Kenya — not even for a day trip to Namanga on the Tanzania border — and come back on the same visa. If you plan to cross into Uganda or Rwanda, even briefly, you need the East Africa Tourist Visa instead. A single-entry visa that gets “used up” by a border crossing will require a new application and another US$50 fee.

4. Uganda Single-Entry Visa — For Gorilla Treks

If your travel plans are focused entirely on Uganda — maybe you’re finally ticking off that gorilla trekking bucket list in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park — the Uganda Single-Entry Visa is your most straightforward and affordable option. It costs US$50 (roughly KSh 6,450 at current rates), allows one entry, and is valid for 90 days from the date of issue. You can apply online at the official Uganda e-Visa portal (visas.immigration.go.ug) or get it on arrival at Entebbe International Airport or any land border (cash only, US$50 exactly).

Cost Breakdown

The Uganda Single-Entry Visa is one of the most reasonably priced visas in the region. Here’s what you’ll pay:

Item	Cost
Single-entry visa fee	US$50 (≈ KSh 6,450)
Online processing fee (if applying via e-Visa portal)	US$0 (included in the US$50)
On-arrival fee (cash only)	US$50
East Africa Tourist Visa upgrade (if you later add Kenya/Rwanda)	US$50 additional (total US$100 for the EAC visa)

✦ Budget Rules: If you’re applying online, use a Visa or Mastercard that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. The portal at visas.immigration.go.ug accepts international cards, but Kenyan banks sometimes add a 2-3% forex charge. On-arrival payment is strictly US dollars — bring crisp, newer bills (post-2013) because Ugandan immigration officers often reject worn notes.

💡 Mkay’s Tip: Don’t let the “single entry” scare you. If you’re doing a straight Nairobi-Entebbe-Bwindi-Entebbe-Nairobi trip, this visa covers you perfectly. But if you catch the travel bug mid-trip and decide to pop into Kisumu or Kigali, you can upgrade to the East Africa Tourist Visa at any immigration office in Uganda for an additional US$50. Just carry extra passport photos.

How to Get There

The most common route for Kenyan travelers is flying Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Entebbe International Airport. Several carriers operate this route, including Kenya Airways and Uganda Airlines, with round-trip fares ranging from KSh 15,000 to KSh 35,000 depending on booking timing. Use BuuPass or book directly on the airline websites to compare.

If you prefer overland travel, the classic route is Nairobi to Busia border (via Kisumu) or Malaba border (via Eldoret). From Nairobi’s Accra Road or River Road, you can catch a direct bus to Busia town for KSh 1,200–1,500 with companies like Easy Coach or Mash Poa. The journey takes about 8 hours. At Busia, you’ll clear Ugandan immigration (present your e-Visa printout or pay US$50 cash on arrival), then take a boda boda to the bus stage for a matatu to Kampala (KSh 1,000–1,500, about 3 hours). From Kampala, you can connect to Bwindi via a bus to Kabale (KSh 1,500–2,000, 5-6 hours), then a matatu to the park gate.

For those driving, the Nairobi-Kisumu-Busia route via the A104 highway is well-tarmacked. Budget for fuel (about KSh 8,000–10,000 one way from Nairobi to Busia in a saloon car) and the ferry crossing at Kisumu (KSh 200 per vehicle). Google Maps coordinates for Busia border post: 0.4625° N, 34.1117° E.

⚠ Important: The Uganda e-Visa portal (visas.immigration.go.ug) requires you to upload a passport photo (white background, JPEG, under 200KB), a copy of your passport bio page, and your yellow fever vaccination certificate. Processing takes 2-5 working days — apply at least a week before travel. If you’re applying on arrival, have the US$50 cash ready and a printed copy of your hotel booking and return ticket.

What to Do

The headline experience is, of course, gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. A gorilla permit costs US$800 (KSh 103,000) for foreign non-residents — book direct through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) website. The trek itself can take 2-8 hours through steep, muddy terrain, but the moment you see a silverback in the wild, surrounded by his family, every step is worth it. Permits are limited to 8 people per gorilla family per day, so book months in advance.

Beyond gorillas, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers tree-climbing lions (best viewed in the Ishasha sector) and a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel where hippos yawn inches from your boat. A park entry fee is US$40 for foreign non-residents. The park is about a 4-hour drive from Bwindi.

For a cultural experience, visit the Batwa Pygmy community near Bwindi. The Batwa Experience, run by the UWA-licensed community association, costs US$30 per person and includes a guided walk through the forest where they demonstrate traditional hunting, honey gathering, and shelter building. It’s a sobering but essential look at the people who lived in this forest before it became a national park.

In Kampala, don’t miss the Uganda Museum (entry US$5) for exhibits on the country’s tribal history and the famous “cave” exhibit. For food, the rolex (a chapati rolled with eggs and vegetables) from street vendors in Kampala costs about KSh 200 — a perfect post-trek snack.

5. Rwanda Single-Entry Visa — The Budget Option

If you’re looking to add a quick, affordable stop to your East Africa trip without committing to the full EAC visa, Rwanda’s single-entry visa is your best bet. At just US$30 for 30 days, it covers everything from Kigali’s night markets to gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, and you can get it on arrival or online before you leave.

Cost Breakdown

The Rwanda single-entry visa is straightforward and cheap — here is exactly what you will pay:

Visa Type	Cost	Validity
Single-entry tourist visa	US$30	30 days
72-hour transit visa	US$10	3 days

You apply through the official Rwanda e-Visa portal at irembo.gov.rw, which accepts payment by credit card or mobile money (some Kenyan travelers have used M-Pesa via a third-party processor, but card is the most reliable). If you prefer to apply on arrival at Kigali International Airport, the same US$30 applies — just have a printed hotel booking and return ticket ready. The transit visa is a steal at US$10 if you are connecting to another country and want to spend a night or two in Kigali.

✦ Budget Rules: If you are flying into Kigali from Nairobi, factor in the US$30 visa plus your flight fare — RwandAir often runs promotions from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport starting around KSh 12,000–15,000 one-way. That total of roughly KSh 16,000–19,000 (visa + flight) still beats the EAC visa’s US$100 if you only plan to stay in Rwanda.

How to Get There

The most common route from Kenya is flying directly from Nairobi to Kigali — RwandAir operates multiple daily flights, and the journey takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. If you are traveling overland, you can take a bus from Nairobi to the Rusumo border crossing (the main Rwanda–Tanzania border post). Several bus companies run this route, including Modern Coast and Mash Poa, with fares around KSh 2,500–3,500 from Nairobi to the border town of Sirari, then you cross into Rwanda and connect to Kigali via a local matatu or boda boda for about US$5–8. For a more organized option, you can book a combined bus ticket through BuuPass that covers the entire Nairobi–Kigali journey — expect to pay around KSh 4,000–5,000 for the full trip, depending on the operator. If you are driving yourself, the GPS coordinates for the Rusumo border post are approximately -2.3781, 30.7833; from there, it is about a 2-hour drive to Kigali on the paved highway.

⚠ Important: If you cross by land, make sure you have your visa approved before you reach the border — the online application through irembo.gov.rw usually processes within 48 hours. Applying on arrival at Rusumo can be done, but the queue sometimes takes an extra hour, especially on weekends.

What to Do

With only 30 days (or even a long weekend), Rwanda packs in experiences that rival its neighbors. Start in Kigali — visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi for a sobering but essential understanding of the country’s history; entry is by donation and guided tours run every hour. Then head to Volcanoes National Park in the north for gorilla trekking — a permit costs US$1,500, but if that is out of budget, you can hike to see golden monkeys for US$100 or climb Mount Bisoke for the crater lake views. If you have time, drive east to Akagera National Park, where a safari costs US$40 per person for a day trip (plus US$30 per vehicle) — look out for elephants and lions on the savannah plains around Lake Ihema. For a shorter stop, the 72-hour transit visa is perfect: land in Kigali on a Friday evening, spend Saturday at the Caplaki Craft Village buying woven baskets and coffee, then fly out Sunday — total cost under US$50 for visa and ground transport.

💡 Mkay’s Tip: If you are on the transit visa, skip the gorilla trek (too expensive and time-sensitive) and instead book a guided walking tour of Kigali’s Nyarugenge Market — you will taste fresh passion fruit, buy a kilogram of Rwandan Arabica coffee for about KSh 800, and be back at your hotel by lunchtime.

6. Tanzania Visa — Separate but Essential

If you are planning a safari in Serengeti, a hike up Kilimanjaro, or a beach escape to Zanzibar, you need a separate visa for Tanzania. The East Africa Tourist Visa (EAC visa) does not cover Tanzania, so you cannot use the same US$100 visa you bought for Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda to cross into Arusha or Dar es Salaam. You apply directly through the Tanzania Immigration website or get one at the border.

Cost Breakdown

Tanzania offers three visa categories, all paid in US dollars (cash is preferred at land borders). Here is what you will pay:

Visa Type	Cost	Validity
Single-entry	US$50	90 days
Multiple-entry	US$100	90 days
Transit (72 hours)	US$30	72 hours

💡 Mkay’s Tip: If you plan to cross from mainland Tanzania to Zanzibar and back, go for the multiple-entry visa (US$100). The single-entry visa will not allow you to re-enter mainland Tanzania after visiting the island, and you will have to pay another US$50 at the ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam.

⚠ Important: You can apply online at the official Tanzania Immigration portal (https://visa.immigration.go.tz) before you travel, which saves you queuing time at the border. Alternatively, you can pay on arrival at Namanga, Sirari, or the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport transit desk — but bring crisp US dollar bills. Torn or old notes are often rejected.

How to Get There

From Nairobi, the most common route into Tanzania is via the Namanga border post, about 170 kilometres south. You can take a matatu from Nairobi’s Ambassadeur Bus Terminal to Namanga town for around KSh 700–1,000. From the matatu stage, bodaboda riders will take you the last two kilometres to the border gate for about KSh 150. Once you clear immigration, you will find buses and minibuses heading to Arusha for TZS 5,000–8,000 (roughly KSh 250–400). If you prefer booking ahead, use BuuPass to reserve a seat on a shuttle from Nairobi to Arusha — these cost around KSh 1,500–2,000 and drop you right at the border crossing.

If you are driving yourself from Nairobi, take the A104 highway towards Namanga. The road is tarmac all the way, but watch for livestock crossing near the border town. The GPS landmark for the Namanga border gate is approximately 2°32’24.7″S 36°48’35.3″E. Keep your passport and the US$50 visa fee ready before you reach the booth.

What to Do

Once you are in Tanzania with your visa stamped, the northern safari circuit is your first stop. Serengeti National Park offers the Great Migration between July and October, where you can watch wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River. Book a guided safari through a licensed tour operator in Arusha — expect to pay from US$150–300 per person per day for a basic camping safari, including park fees and transport.

If you have time, take the ferry from Dar es Salaam to Zanzibar. The high-speed ferries operated by Azam Marine and other licensed companies depart daily at 7:00 AM and 1:00 PM, costing around US$35–50 one way. On the island, spend a day walking through Stone Town’s narrow alleys, then head to the northern beaches like Nungwi for snorkelling with green sea turtles. For a quieter experience, visit Jozani Forest to see the red colobus monkeys — entry is about US$10, and a guide is mandatory.

✦ Budget Rules: If your budget is tight, skip the multiple-entry visa and plan your itinerary so you enter Tanzania once. Do your Serengeti safari first, then take the ferry to Zanzibar, and fly out of Zanzibar directly — that way you only need the US$50 single-entry visa.

7. Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

The East Africa Tourist Visa sounds like a golden ticket to four countries, but many travelers trip up on the fine print. The biggest mistake? Assuming it covers Tanzania — it does not, so you will still need a separate Tanzania visa or a visit pass if you plan to cross into Arusha or Zanzibar. I have seen women stranded at Namanga border because they thought one visa did it all. Let me walk you through the other pitfalls so your trip stays smooth, not stressful.

Cost Breakdown

The East Africa Tourist Visa costs $100 USD (roughly KSh 12,950 at current rates) and is valid for 90 days with multiple entries into Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda. Here is what you need to budget for beyond the visa fee:

• Visa application fee: $100 USD (paid online via https://evisa.go.ke)
• Service charge: Approximately $30 USD (KSh 3,885) for processing through the official portal
• Tanzania visa (separate): $50 USD (KSh 6,475) for a single entry or $100 USD for a multiple-entry visa
• Rwanda visa (if not using EAC visa): $30 USD (KSh 3,885) for a single entry
• Uganda visa (if not using EAC visa): $50 USD (KSh 6,475) for a single entry
• Printing costs: KSh 100–200 per page at a cyber café near the airport or at a shop in town — do not skip this

✦ Budget Rules: Always carry an extra $50 USD (KSh 6,475) in cash for unexpected visa fees at land borders like Busia or Namanga. ATMs are not always reliable at the crossing points, and M-Pesa agents may not accept international cards.

⚠ Important: Do not pay for the EAC visa through any third-party agent who contacts you on WhatsApp or Instagram. Only use https://evisa.go.ke or the https://www.ecitizen.go.ke portal. I have heard stories of women paying KSh 20,000 to a “travel agent” who disappeared with their passport photos.

How to Get There

You apply for the East Africa Tourist Visa entirely online from home, but “getting there” means physically arriving at a port of entry in Kenya, Uganda, or Rwanda. If you are flying into Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in Nairobi, the visa processing desk is in the arrivals hall — allow 30–45 minutes after landing because the queue can be long during peak hours (6 AM–10 AM). For overland travelers, the most common entry is Busia border (from Uganda) or Namanga border (from Tanzania). From Nairobi, take a matatu from River Road to Busia town; the fare is KSh 1,200–1,500 depending on the SACCO (book your seat via BuuPass to avoid haggling). At the border, walk to the immigration hall on the Kenyan side, present your printed visa approval letter, and get your passport stamped. If you are driving from Nairobi, take the A104 highway toward Malaba, then turn at Webuye toward Busia — about 8 hours with traffic. Landmark: the large Busia border gate with the blue “East African Community” sign is hard to miss.

💡 Mkay’s Tip: Print three copies of your visa approval letter — one for the airline check-in desk, one for immigration at the border, and one spare in your daypack. I once watched a woman scramble at JKIA because her phone battery died and she had no paper copy.

What to Do

Once you have the visa sorted, use the 90-day window to travel freely between the three countries. Start in Nairobi and take an early matatu from Accra Road to Kisumu (KSh 1,000–1,200 via BuuPass) to visit Kisumu Impala Sanctuary — entry is KSh 500 for adults — where you can walk among impalas and zebras with Lake Victoria as your backdrop. From Kisumu, cross into Uganda via Busia and head to Jinja for a boat ride to the source of the Nile; local operators on the riverfront charge around $15 USD (KSh 1,940) per person for a 2-hour trip. Then take a boda boda from Jinja town to Bujagali Falls (KSh 200–300) to watch white-water rafters from the viewing platform. For a Rwanda leg, fly from Entebbe to Kigali (RwandAir fares start at $80 USD / KSh 10,360 one way) and spend a day at Kigali Genocide Memorial — entry is free but donations of KSh 500–1,000 are appreciated. The memorial’s gardens are quiet and reflective, perfect for processing the journey you have made.

⚠ Important: Check your passport validity before you book anything. It must have at least 6 months remaining from your date of entry into the EAC region. I have seen women turned away at JKIA check-in because their passport expired in 5 months — and the airline refused to board them. If you overstay the 90-day visa limit, the fine in Kenya is KSh 2,000 per day (paid at the Nyayo House immigration office in Nairobi), plus a possible ban from re-entry. Set a phone reminder for day 85 to cross out or extend.

8. Burundi & South Sudan — What You Need

If you are planning to extend your East African trip beyond the EAC visa countries, Burundi and South Sudan sit right next door but operate on entirely separate entry systems. Neither country is included in the East Africa Tourist Visa, so you will need to budget for a standalone visa on arrival or an e-Visa, plus carry your yellow fever certificate and a return ticket.

Cost Breakdown

Both countries charge a flat fee for a single-entry visa valid for 30 days, payable in US dollars cash at the airport or border post.

Country	Visa Cost	Validity
Burundi	US$40	30 days
South Sudan	US$50	30 days

• Burundi: US$40 for a single-entry visa on arrival at Bujumbura International Airport or land borders like Akanyaru/Haut. You must have two passport-size photos and proof of yellow fever vaccination.
• South Sudan: US$50 for a single-entry visa on arrival at Juba International Airport. Alternatively, you can apply for an e-Visa online before travel through the South Sudan e-Visa portal — the fee is the same US$50.
• Additional costs: Both countries may charge a departure tax (often included in your air ticket now, but check with your airline). You will also need a return or onward ticket printed out — airline staff at check-in will ask to see it.
• ⚠ Important: Carry crisp US dollar notes issued after 2013. Torn, marked, or old-series bills are often rejected at border posts and visa counters in both countries.

How to Get There

From Nairobi, your most practical option is a direct flight. Kenya Airways flies daily from JKIA to Bujumbura (Burundi) and to Juba (South Sudan). A round-trip booked through BuuPass or directly on the KQ app typically runs between KSh 35,000 and KSh 60,000 depending on season — book at least three weeks ahead for the lower end.

If you are already in Kampala or Kigali, you can cross by road into Burundi. From Kampala, take a bus from the main taxi park to the Gatuna/Katuna border (about US$15), then connect to a matatu from the border post to Bujumbura (roughly 3 hours, about KSh 1,500 equivalent in Ugandan shillings). The road is paved but winding through the hills — expect police checks where you will need to show your passport and yellow card.

For South Sudan, overland travel from Uganda is possible via the Elegu/Nimule border post. A bus from Kampala to Gulu (about KSh 2,500) then a boda boda to Elegu border (KSh 500) will get you to the South Sudan side. However, I strongly advise against overland entry unless you have a local contact meeting you — the security situation in the border region can shift quickly and checkpoints are numerous.

💡 Mkay’s Tip: If flying, land at Juba during daylight hours (before 4 PM). The airport immigration queue moves slowly and after dark, finding a registered taxi to your hotel becomes much harder and more expensive.

What to Do

Burundi — Lake Tanganyika and the Livingstone–Stanley Monument: In Bujumbura, spend an afternoon at the shores of Lake Tanganyika — the water is warm and clear, and the beachfront restaurants along Boulevard de l’Uprona serve grilled tilapia with plantains for about KSh 1,200. Drive 15 minutes south to the Livingstone–Stanley Monument at Mugere, where the two explorers met in 1871. The site is modest — a stone marker overlooking the lake — but the story is worth the short trip. For nature lovers, Kibira National Park in the north offers guided chimpanzee tracking (US$50 park fee, payable at the gate in cash). The forest is dense and misty; you will hear the chimps before you see them.

South Sudan — Juba’s Nile River and Nimule National Park: In Juba, take a boat ride on the White Nile from the jetty near the Juba Bridge. Local operators charge around US$20 per person for a one-hour trip — you will see hippos surfacing and fishermen casting nets at sunset. About 120 kilometres south of Juba, Nimule National Park sits along the Uganda border and is reachable by hired 4×4 (around US$150 for a day trip from Juba including driver). The park is known for its elephant herds and the dramatic Fola Rapids on the Nile. You must enter with a ranger from the South Sudan Wildlife Service — arrange this at the park gate (US$30 per vehicle entry fee). Security check: before heading to Nimule, confirm with your hotel or the South Sudan Ministry of Wildlife that the road is open — armed convoy requirements change monthly.

✦ Budget Rules: In both countries, carry small US dollar bills (US$1, US$5, US$10) for park fees, boat rides, and tips. ATMs are unreliable, and if you find one that works in Juba or Bujumbura, the withdrawal limit is usually US$100 and the machine may charge a flat fee of US$5–10. Plan for cash-only days.

Budget Hacks That Actually Work

• Buy the EAC visa if visiting 2+ countries. At US$100, it’s cheaper than two single visas (US$100 total for Kenya+Uganda, but you get Rwanda free).
• Apply online, not at the border. Border applications may charge extra ‘processing fees’ or require cash in USD.
• Use M-Pesa for local payments. Once in Kenya, pay for buses, food, and even some park fees with M-Pesa. Avoid card surcharges.
• Travel overland between countries. Buses from Nairobi to Kampala cost around KSh 2,500–3,000, while flights can be US$100+.
• Stay in hostels or guesthouses. Budget accommodation in Kigali starts at US$10/night; in Kampala, US$15.
• Book safaris in groups. Group rates for gorilla permits (US$700) are fixed, but sharing transport cuts costs.
• Avoid peak season. July–August and December–January see higher prices for flights and lodges.
• Check for visa fee waivers. Some nationalities (e.g., African Union members) may have reduced or free visas.

💡 Mkay’s Tip: Always carry USD cash (new bills, no tears) for visa fees at land borders. ATMs may be scarce or charge high fees.

⚠ Important: Never pay ‘visa facilitation’ fees to touts at borders. Use official immigration counters only.

When to Go: A Practical Timing Guide

The best time for an East Africa multi-country trip depends on wildlife viewing and weather. Here’s a month-by-month breakdown:

Month	Season	Kenya	Uganda	Rwanda	Pros	Cons
Jan–Feb	Dry	Hot, clear	Dry	Dry	Excellent wildlife viewing in Maasai Mara & Serengeti	Peak season, higher prices
Mar–May	Long rains	Rainy	Rainy	Rainy	Lush scenery, fewer tourists	Roads muddy, some parks close
Jun–Oct	Dry	Cooler	Dry	Dry	Great for gorilla trekking (Uganda/Rwanda)	Crowded in July–August
Nov–Dec	Short rains	Light showers	Light showers	Light rains	Green landscapes, lower rates	Some afternoon rains

💡 Mkay’s Tip: For gorilla trekking, the dry months (June–September and December–February) offer easier hiking conditions. But the parks are open year-round.

Kenyan school holidays (April, August, December) and public holidays (e.g., Jamhuri Day, December 12) can spike domestic travel, so book transport and accommodation early.

Best Long Weekends to Leverage in 2026/2027

• Madaraka Day (June 1, 2026 – Monday): Combine with Saturday and Sunday for a 3-day trip to Lake Naivasha or Hell’s Gate.
• Moi Day (October 10, 2026 – Saturday): Falls on a Saturday, so no extra day off, but you can plan a weekend getaway to Diani.
• Jamhuri Day (December 12, 2026 – Saturday): Again a Saturday, but the festive season means many take the whole week off.
• Kenyatta Day (October 20, 2027 – Wednesday): Perfect for a mid-week break to Amboseli or Tsavo.
• Easter Weekend (March 26–29, 2027): Four days! Ideal for a Rwanda gorilla trek or Uganda safari.
• Labour Day (May 1, 2027 – Saturday): Use the preceding Friday for a long weekend to the coast.

💡 Mkay’s Tip: For long weekends, book BuuPass tickets at least two weeks in advance. Buses fill up fast, especially Nairobi–Mombasa routes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get the East Africa Tourist Visa on arrival?

No. The EAC visa must be applied for online before travel. It is not available at land borders or airports. You must have the approval letter printed and with you.

How long does it take to process the EAC visa?

Typically 2–3 business days. Rush processing (24 hours) is available for an extra fee on eCitizen.

Can I enter Tanzania with the EAC visa?

No. Tanzania is not part of the EAC tourist visa agreement. You need a separate Tanzania visa.

Is the EAC visa valid for multiple entries?

Yes, it allows multiple entries into Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda during its 90-day validity.

What if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying incurs a fine of US$50 per month in Kenya, and similar penalties in Uganda and Rwanda. Always track your entry date.

Can I apply for the EAC visa if I’m already in East Africa?

No. You must apply from your country of residence or at a Kenyan embassy/consulate abroad. Applications from within the region are rejected.

Do I need a yellow fever certificate?

Yes. All travellers entering East Africa must show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Failure may result in denial of entry or quarantine.

Can I extend the EAC visa?

Extensions are possible in Kenya through the Department of Immigration (up to 6 months total). Fees apply.

Which countries can I visit with the EAC visa?

Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda only. Burundi, Tanzania, and South Sudan require separate visas.

Before You Go

• ✅ Confirm your visa approval letter is printed (2 copies).
• ✅ Load your M-Pesa with enough funds for transport and meals.
• ✅ Pack a power bank — long bus rides may not have charging ports.
• ✅ Download offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) for border areas.
• ✅ Share your itinerary with a friend or family member.
• ✅ Check the weather forecast for each country you’ll visit.
• ✅ Carry USD cash in small denominations (US$1, US$5, US$10) for tips and small purchases.
• ✅ Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and two blank pages.

Pack your bag. Load your M-Pesa. Text that one friend who’s always saying they want to travel. And go.

Sources & Pricing Notes

• Kenya e-Visa Portal — Official visa application site for Kenya and EAC visa.
• eCitizen Kenya — Government services portal for visa applications.
• Uganda e-Visa — Official Uganda visa portal.
• Rwanda e-Visa (Irembo) — Official Rwanda visa portal.
• Tanzania Immigration — Official Tanzania visa information.
• World Health Organization — Yellow fever vaccination requirements.
• IATA Travel Centre — Visa and passport requirements by nationality.

Pricing is as of May 2026. Always verify on official sites before booking.